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Complimentary Interview/Pre-marital Session...
The purpose of this time is to give you a chance to meet me face to face, and for us to get to know one another. I'm easy to talk to; even for someone who is quite shy. The length of our session depends on the package you choose. 

In our relaxed, congenial session we establish our relationship and will know you have chosen a supportive, creative and experienced ceremony planner and Officiant. I will get to know you as individuals and as a couple, and you will get to know me. We will discuss your wedding, your relationship and the vision you have for your marriage. We'll talk seriously and humorously, establishing a relationship that can continue as long as you want. Most couples learn more about themselves and their partner, and are grateful for our time together.

The last part of the session will be devoted to your ceremony. Based on what I've learned about you, and any ideas you might have, I will show you material from which you can create a ceremony that reflects your relationship and vision. 

Virtually all the couples who interview me decide by this time they want me to officiate their ceremony, so, assuming that you do too, you will be able to choose what you like. You will make your choice here or I will put these selections together with other reference and e-mail it to you. At home, the two of you have time to review and select what you want in your ceremony. My process of  ceremony creation may offer the best selection of meaningful, crafted reference that gives the most choice and therefore, personalization. And, you get invaluable quality time alone and together, discovering what matters most to your heart and soul.

Location of Meeting...
My office, conveniently located in central Westchester County, New York, is easily accessible by car or train. A face-to-face meeting in my lovely hilltop office, with all reference material at hand, is ideal; however, other meeting places or a telephone conference can be arranged, if necessary.

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Ceremony Options and Preparation:
As an experienced minister and ceremonial guide, I offer options for selecting or creating a personalized ceremony to suit different timing, taste, budget...

"Ready to Wear" 
Based on what I've learned about you, I'll show you ceremonies from which you choose the one that suits you as is. You will have many appropriate choices. 
This may be useful if we are very close to your wedding date, or if you are on a tight budget. 

"In Office Composite"
This package gives you the ability to make choices and leave the rest to me.  Based on what I've learned about you, I'll show you ceremonies from which you can create your own. You’ll choose what you like and, with my guidance, come up with a ceremony outline. After I’ve put it together, we’ll have a conference call to review and “rehearse.” 

"Homemade Personalized Composite"
This most popular option allows you to personalize a ceremony in your own space and time with many reference options from my extensive collection. Couples often experience creating their ceremony together as a special time where they learn more about themselves and each other as they discuss their preferences and philosophies on love, partnership, and family.

Based on what I've learned about you from our session, I'll show you material from which you can create a ceremony draft. The readings, blessings, and rituals, I suggest result from my getting to know you and your preferences, and my experience. I have various styles of expression for candles, wine, flowers, children, designed to reflect your unique relationship and families. 

You choose several you like and I'll e-mail these and other documents containing readings, vows, etc. to broaden your choices. You will also receive a document to guide you in creating your "draft." In the comfort of your home, you can review, discuss and select what you want in your ceremony. When satisfied, you will send me your draft. 

I'll then enter into my process of editing and enhancing. Next we schedule a telephone conference. The first part is for review and feedback; we collaborate until we're satisfied. Then we have a "rehearsal" - what to expect before, during and after the ceremony. My aim is to unveil the unknowns and offer suggestions that will help you feel as comfortable as possible. 

Your finished ceremony will be an artistic blend of your input and mine. I will make my final edits and mail you a copy of your ceremony. You can get familiar with it and hopefully, live it's essence!

My vision is for us to have an enjoyable time at the altar, for everyone present to strengthen their connections through the ceremony's words, rituals, spirit and presentation.

In case you are wondering, my average ceremony takes about 20 minutes, and no, you don't have to memorize your vows!

"Customized"  (Self-Created, New Words, Ideas, Rituals) 

I love to create and write meaningful rituals to express your personal needs, and will do so with words, etc. that are comfortable for me as your minister... 

You've put together a ceremony you're basically happy with and you want to make sure it's as beautiful and meaningful as it can be. I'll read your submission and make suggestions for enhancing it. The three of us will collaborate until we are satisfied.  

You introduce new material, ideas, etc.  I will capture the essence of your thought, in word and/or ritual to express it. Using my ability to transform concepts, I'll weave it in, keeping in mind the big picture while working with details (flow,  logistics, etc.) 

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Pre and Optional Post Wedding Session:
I offer support along the way to your wedding day and beyond...

You can choose the amount of time we spend together.

Each of us is capable of growing in our powers and skills of giving and receiving love. And, as you know, even the most loving relationships have roughs spots. Believing that bumps in the road can be a catalyst for growth, and even become a reason for celebration, I offer gently effective, supportive coaching/counseling before and anytime after the ceremony. I invest in you and your relationship; I'm available to help you nurture and enrich your committed relationship. 

"The Basics" Pre-Nuptial Session...

This session of about 2 hours generally allows for an exchange of basic "getting to know you" information, enough to start the ceremony creation process. This is usually chosen by couples who don't think relationship enhancement is necessary at this point, and would rather focus on the ceremony. 

 "I Love my Relationship!" Pre-Nuptial Session...

This session is actually lighter and moves more quickly than it may sound...

For the couple that wants to gift themselves with intimate together time in a session with extra time to focus on their relationship and partnered life. They realize there is more to learn and want to enhance their relationship, and/or have an issue to work on and want a fresh perspective from a qualified professional. In this session of about 3½ hours, we have more relaxed time to get to know each other. In addition to the basic 'get to know you' questions, there are other interesting exploratory questions, resource materials, and an depth explanation of The Principals and Skills of Intentional Loving.  We end with an experiential exercise using these skills, after which, couples feel closer, and even more connected. Then, in this loving space, you will begin the ceremony creation process.

 As a Bonus and Incentive - this package comes with an optional, complimentary session anytime before or after the wedding.

Range of Time and Fee:
My fees are reasonable and will be discussed personally, in conversation, when I know more about what you want. I've created options to suit different preferences and budgets so I can say "yes" as often as possible. Package fee is based on the average amount of time spent with you. The quoted fee is for my average amount of total service time for you; it usually includes one hour travel to your wedding site. Additional time, fees will be discussed as appropriate.

Keepsake Ceremony 
A printed copy of your marriage ceremony is complementary! Because  your ceremony was written with  meaningful words that support a thriving relationships, I want you to have words to live by. 

Place a copy of your vows where you can see them as inspiration to live by!  Reread your ceremony on your anniversaries a wonderful memory, or any day as a guide! 

How do I Choose my Officiant?:  

Since I started this joy filled service of uniting couples in marriage, there are now so many Officiants to choose from. Some have qualified training, most have some and others... Did you know its possible to get a license to officiate on the internet or take a weekend workshop?  

It takes more that a license to create the wedding and ceremony you want. (I know that because you've been drawn to my site and have taken the time to read before you take the next steps towards your decision.) If you care more about making it official or the party than your ceremony of uniting, you would not be here and would hire someone who just gets the job done at your venue or in city hall. 

I really care. And, believe you can have all aspects of your day be perfect!

What sets me apart, and can be best experienced as we go through the process, is that I have the essential and the additional skills, training, and experience to be considered one of the best. 

I offer you very warm, high quality personal service, meaningful, heartwarming ceremonies written to perfection. And often overlooked yet vital, the ability to professionally and warmly present/officiate with joy, elegance and charisma, knowing how to include everyone present; how to keep the ordinary fresh and alive, as well creatively and appropriately handle the unexpected with grace and humor.  

I'm there for you - your choice for an experienced, caring, and gifted celebrant! 

Professional Referrals:
I will serve you personally, and/or will refer you to known colleagues and professional services. Having seen many wedding professionals in action, I can often make referrals to meet your needs. I accept no commissions for most professional service referrals, I'm just happy to help.

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Credentials and Experience
Reverend Janice Arlene Rost, MSC,  MSTh, MDW, RM, ACH

Reverend Rost is a Minister of Spiritual Counseling and Divine Wisdom, with a Master of Spiritual Therapy degree. She completed a four-year seminary program of Interfaith Ministry and Counsel; she was ordained June 1989, in Columbia University's St. Paul's Chapel. Licensed in New York, and granted reciprocity in additional states, Reverend Rost has been officiating weddings and other ceremonies since 1990.

In addition to creating ceremony and community, Reverend Janice is an experienced and gifted facilitator of healing for individuals, couples, and groups. Using the healing arts of Mind/Body/Spirit Tapestry in a caring environment, she supports individuals along life's journey, especially during times of transition. Her "listening" hands and heart combine with an intuitive, empathetic approach making a session with her an integrative and transformational experience.

Minister, Mind/Body Psychotherapist, Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapist, Reiki Master/ Trainer, ceremonial artist, poet, painter and storyteller - Reverend Rost draws from over 30 years of life experience gained through personal exploration, training, and apprenticeship with leaders in the healing and ceremonial arts.

Supportive Healing Arts Include...

. Relational Counsel/Enhancement (You and anyone!) 

. Psychotherapy, Spiritual Counsel, Life Coaching

. Mind/Body Therapy - Hands-on-Healing (Reiki, CranioSacral, Acupressure)

. Stress Management and Reduction

. Hypnotherapy, Visualization

. Breathwork

. Health and Wellness 

. Workshops/Training - Reiki Attunements, Wellness, Energy, Communication, Writing...

Please go to this site for more about my Healing Arts and Services...

www.HeartAndSoulMatters.byregion.net

In my own words...

"It is my honor to support you during the best times of your life, as well as the most challenging. I love people. I'm intrigued with how we think and feel and relate - alone and together (myself included!). I believe the vital work we human beings have is about learning self-love, practicing intentional loving in all our relationships, and creating partnerships that thrive. It is really is about our human-ness which includes our brokenness, about having the strength it takes to be vulnerable, letting go of our fears and loving more unconditionally. We do have freedom and choice, what we need are better transformative 'tools' and a supportive community of role models in the art of relationship...

I'm experienced in addressing concerns and situations regarding the mind, body, emotions, and spirit. My work with individuals and couples is progressive, and powerful. I regard therapy/counsel as a gift to our self and to all our relationships. Within a non-judgmental environment and supportive relationship, one can be deeply heard and responded to with empathy, insight and new possibilities. 

My process oriented approach is personalized and creative, heart-centered, intuitive, and collaborative. I offer techniques that progress you quicker than talk alone. I'll help you build a healthy foundation of good will, self care, awareness, compassion and acceptance. You can expect enhanced esteem, communication, intimacy, peace and harmony with yourself and others.

We can all learn more about how to give and receive love. And, we all face challenges that become opportunities to learn and grow. I support your choice to live fully alive, alone or in partnership, and am honored to walk beside you in your journey."

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